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Students shine at myMaker Robotics Challenge

19/12/2016, The Malay Mail Online

CYBERJAYA, Nov 24 — Students from various schools in Malaysia exhibited their talents in the myMaker Robotics Challenge 2016 with unique creations.

Hosted by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), the event was held recently to create awareness on the role of robots, drones and three-dimensional printings and expose students to technology.

Hong Seong Zhen, 10, from SJK(C) Sin Hua, who bagged the award for RC Sumo Robot (Junior Category), said he was happy to win as it took him only one day to build his robot.

“My teacher gave me some guidance in coming up with the idea. She was there to make sure I did not face any problems while building the robot,” he said.

Seong Zhen said it was the first time that he had taken part in the robotic challenge and did not expect to win.

“The design of my robot is simple, so I am happy the judges saw something special in it,” he said.

“We took about two weeks to make the robot, but came up with the idea two months ago,” he said.

He said the robot’s speciality was its high speed while battling with other robots and the ability to have a good balance despite its light weight.

“We fixed four Direct Current (DC) gear motors for best performance. The maximum speed for the robot is go up to 240 revolutions per minute,” he said, adding the robot uses a Cytron smart engine and can be controlled with a remote control.

MCMC technology and society division senior director Aisharuddin Nuruddin said the competition promoted creativity and innovation among the younger generation.

“Malaysia has been successful in capturing the benefits of the science and engineering fields, but it requires continuous effort and investment to have a sustainable growth and be ahead of the competitors,” he said.

He said the robotics challenge would ensure greater emphasis in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics while promoting Internet of Things and maker communities.

The robotics competition was an initiative by MCMC in collaboration with Malaysia Robotics Engineering Association and supported by Pertubuhan myMaker.

“We are focusing on technology sharing, especially when it revolves around the Internet of Things and robotics technology,” Aisharuddin said, adding the direct impact would inculcate interest among students.